US Open: Novak Djokovic wades in on Nick Kyrgios umpire controversy from Herbert clash
NOVAK DJOKOVIC has jumped to the defence of the umpire engulfed in controversy during the Nick Kyrgios-Pierre-Hugues Herbert match yesterday.
Kyrgios battled back from a set and a break down to beat Herbert last night, setting up a tasty third round match against Roger Federer.
But the match was shrouded in controversy following an intervention from the umpire during the second set.
With Herbert winning the first set and up a break in the second, Kyrgios already looked defeated as he leant on his knees.
At this point, match umpire Mohamed Lahyani came down from his chair to approach the Australian.
Lahyani told Kyrgios “I want to help you” and, in the player's words, that he “liked him”.
US Open officials later explained Lahyani’s intention was to check on Kyrgios’ health as he couldn’t hear him from the chair due to the noise from the crowd.
It still drew heavy criticism from fans and Herbert also expressed a disgruntlement about the umpire’s actions.
However, Djokovic has defended Lahyani, stating the Swedish tennis official meant no harm.
Nick Kyrgios plays through-the-leg's shot at US Open
“I understand why people, maybe Herbert, is upset because that has happened,” Djokovic said.
“Obviously it's understandable. A chair umpire should be neutral.
“But everybody who knows Mohamed knows as well he's quite different from others.
“He's always very positive, smiles, tries to bring that energy to the court. He likes to make a show, as well, out of it.
“Knowing Mohamed, I really don't think that he meant to do it for any other reason but to really try to help Nick to understand that if he continues doing that, he might get, you know, fined or penalty or whatever, or warning.
“I haven't seen it, as I say. From I what heard, knowing Mohamed, I think he has done it in a friendly way.
“He didn't want to probably sound that he's threatening Nick.
“Again, I understand as well why people are speculating that should not happen.
“But I'll check out the video and I'll see more.”